Planting & CareIf you want to try growing kava at home, search for a kava vendor selling live seedlings or rootstock. Keep in mind that domesticated Piper methysticum (kava kava) plants are sterile—meaning they produce no seed—and new plants must always be grown from cuttings or the root bundle of the plant.

Sunlight: Part shade

Soil: well-drained soil

Water: medium

Temprature: 75-80 degrees

Fertilizer: Apply any organic fertilizer

Care:

Pot your kava kava plant in loose soil that allows for water drainage to prevent root rot: growers usually recommend a blend of 50% organic compost and 50% Perlite or coconut coir.

Remember, kava evolved to expect regular rainfall in its jungle habitat, so water your kava regularly! If you’re growing it in a drier environment such as indoors, you’ll probably want to mist your kava’s leaves with a spray bottle to maintain a good level of humidity

Special Feature:This tropical shrub is infrequently grown in the U.S. except for Hawaii. In temperate climates, it may be grown in containers that are overwintered indoors from fall to spring.UseMedicinal use: